A ceremony commemorating Canada's involvement in the Italian campaign during the Second World War took place in Ottawa Friday. Veterans and politicians gathered in the Senate chamber to remember the veterans' sacrifices.

"We have to ask ourselves how we can be worthy of the sacrifices these men made," Minister of Veterans Affairs Albina Guarnieri said. "After any war, monetary debts are quickly repaid, but the human costs last forever."

"Ours is a never-ending mission. We have an obligation to keep the memory of the veterans above the tide of time."

The minister said many events would mark the anniversary, as it also marks 60 years since the end of the Second World War.

"We will turn back the clock 60 years and recreate V.E. day right here in Canada. We will mark the end of the war in the Far East by bringing together our Hong Kong POWs here in Ottawa."

Canadians played a critical role in the 20-month mission, which eventually led to the liberation of Italy during the war. It was the first large-scale land operation in which the Canadian Army stationed in Britain took part.

Fought in Sicily first and mainland Italy later, the fighting in this mission was bitter. More than 5,900 Canadian soldiers died, and thousands more were wounded.

Also at the ceremony, Guarnieri declared 2005 the Year of the Veteran.

"The Year of the Veteran will enable the Government of Canada on behalf of all Canadians to express gratitude to those whom we owe a tremendous debt, one that only can be repaid through active remembrance," she said.

A portrait of retired major Ted Griffiths was unveiled at the ceremony. He organizes a "dinner of reconciliation" that takes place every year in Ortona, Italy. Guests at the dinner include soldiers who fought on opposite sides of the trench.

Funds Griffiths has raised have helped in the dedication of a statue in Ortona called The Price of Peace.

"Both are splendid monuments and an ongoing testament to the sacrifice of our brave Canadian Veterans," stated Minister Guarnieri, "Ted's devotion to the cause of remembrance continues. That is why he is so richly deserving of this Award."